Ski Jackets are costly for a reason. The amount of Research and Development that goes into this luxury winter apparel will impress you.

Also referred to as "apparel" technology, such is involved in the design and manufacturing aspects of Ski Jackets. The design side involves working with materials and fabrics, while the technical angle deals with such aspects such as safety.

"Wearable technology" (www.infideas.com) has created some new and incredible features such as built-in radios and controlling just how hot you wish to feel.

The designers of Ski Jackets were not going to be left behind when it came to becoming environmentally friendly. This is achieved, primarily, through the fabrics used in the manufacturing.

Safety features such as built-in sensors and beacon technology as well as electroluminescent panels are the very latest with Ski Jackets.

• Gore-Tex: A durable material that provides both a waterproof and breathable material.
• Wind Stopper: A specific material that's sole purpose is to prevent wind from entering.
• 10,000mm/20,000mm: Ratings that are used to describe the different levels of water resistance. The most common rating you will find is 10,000mm. A rating of 20,000mm is better, but you may not need a rating this high unless you are an avid outdoor enthusiast.
• Thinsulate: An insulation that is used to keep you warm and is measured in grams. The higher the number, the warmer the jacket will be.

Note: Gore-Tex will be your most costly material, but it is also one of the best too. (www.skis.com)

Not only do Ski Jackets now come with sensors and beacons - electroluminescent capabilities are available for when it gets too dark and you are still out on the slopes.

Also, ".avalanche airbags have been developed to work as a backpack with an exploding double airbag stored in the side pockets, leaving enough room in the middle of the pack for your personal kit. If you are caught in an avalanche, the airbag will inflate and rise to the top of the debris and snow, indicating to rescuers exactly where you are." (www.skis.com)

Other innovative safety features which are now part of Ski Jackets include, ".built-in sensors and beacon technology such as the Recco reflector, combined with complete water-repellent and breathable fabrics, have brought the ski world farther into the back country than ever before." (www.skis.com)

Ski Jackets "lead the way in wearable technology, with built-in radios, microphones, earpieces and 'push-to-talk' technology for hands-free communication. Even if an MP3 player isn't built-in, an MP3 pocket and understated portals for earphones have become a winter essential. On the more practical side of high altitude style, jackets are now controlling how hot you feel and how well you can see. Powered by small battery packs, some jackets have electroluminescent panels that light up on low visibility days (or when you're stumbling back to the chalet after a few apres-ski drinks). If the mulled wine doesn't warm you up, some manufacturers are now producing clothing with battery-driven heating, which warms you up at the push of a button." (www.infideas.com)

• Taped Seams: Helps keep moisture and wind out - More durable than Stitched Seams, which you will also find on ski jackets.
• Hood: Versatile, as it may either fold up or zip off. The greatest benefit to this is that you have the option to remove or stow-away the hood when it isn't needed. This way it won't bunch up at the back of your neck or flap in the wind.
• Pit Zip Venting: Pit Zips allow air to flow through your jacket when you feel like getting a bit of a breeze. This feature is especially nice on warm weather ski days. (www.skis.com)

Pockets are an essential component of Ski Jackets. They serve to accommodate technology instead of being created by technology. Andrew Schaad, in www.skis.com, reminisces about old Ski Jackets and details the function of multiple pockets nowadays, ".contained 3 pockets, 2 outside and 1 inside. By comparison, most jackets are now equipped with at least 6 pockets, with each serving a different purpose. You will find jackets with pockets that are specific for cell phones, iPods, goggles, and many other items.an important consideration when selecting a jacket because you need to know if your jacket will carry the accessories that you take on the hill with you.

• Electronics Pocket: Used for iPods, cell phones, and other electronic devices.
• Goggle Pocket: Large enough to store your goggles when you are not wearing them.
• Sleeve Pocket: Provides easy access, usually used as a money pocket.
• Goggle Cloth: Usually in the outside pocket and attached to something elastic. This will allow you to wipe goggles without scratching them.
• Powder Skirt: Designed to keep snow and/or wind from entering the bottom of the jacket. This is a terrific feature regardless of skier level.
• Cuff Adjustment: Allow you to either seal the cuff around your glove on really cold days. Or you can tighten it around your wrist to keep wind out.
• Pass Holder: Used to hold your season or daily pass so that you do not have to worry about where your wicket (ticket holder) needs to go.
• Draw Cord: Located at the bottom of the jacket to keep snow out of the inside of your jacket. This is similar to a Powder Skirt and is ideal for skiers who like deep snow." (www.skis.com)

Ski Jackets, like so many other items today, are being designed with eco-friendliness in mind. One of the best ways to get the message out there is through famous designers such as Stella McCartney, daughter of Beatle Paul.

McCartney has designed an ".award winning 'Adidas by Stella McCartney Collection'.continuing to re-define and challenge traditional sport silhouettes and affirming once again that it is still the only range available for women that is a true fusion of performance and style. The unique fitness fashion line for women which combines cutting-edge Adidas technologies with Stella's unique designs together with 100% organically grown cotton apparel pieces and footwear using sustainable materials." (www.zappos.com)